What is the implant?
A flexible 4 cm hormonal implant (contraceptive rod) placed under the skin on the inner side of the upper arm. It continuously releases small amounts of etonogestrel — a progestin that prevents ovulation.
Reliability
With a Pearl Index under 0.1 it is among the more reliable reversible hormonal methods, as no daily missed-use errors can occur. As with any contraceptive method, no method offers 100% protection.
Insertion
Insertion under local anaesthesia takes about 10 minutes. The rod is placed through a small skin puncture; a suture is not normally needed. Keep the pressure bandage on for 24 hours. The small dressing over the insertion site should remain clean, dry and in place for 3–5 days. Please also follow your individual aftercare instructions and contact us if redness, swelling, pain or discharge increases, or if you can no longer feel the implant.
Bleeding pattern
Bleeding patterns vary and cannot be predicted reliably before insertion. Bleeding may be absent, less frequent, more frequent, prolonged or continuous, and its intensity or duration may change.
- About 1 in 5 users report no bleeding (amenorrhoea).
- Another approximately 1 in 5 users report frequent and/or prolonged bleeding.
For many users, the pattern during the first three months broadly predicts the later pattern. Heavy bleeding is occasionally reported. Unexpectedly heavy or persistent bleeding should be assessed; if bleeding is troublesome, we can discuss treatment options or changing method.
Pros & cons
Pros: low Pearl Index, lower hormone dose than the combined pill, suitable when breastfeeding, fertility usually returns quickly after removal.
Cons: hormonal (not for women wanting hormone-free), irregular bleeding possible, small procedure for insertion and removal.
Removal
Possible at any time, in local anaesthesia. Fertility usually returns quickly. Replace and reinsert in the same visit.
Costs
For self-pay patients, insertion or replacement costs CHF 700 including the implant, local anaesthetic and materials; replacement includes removal of the old implant. Removal alone costs CHF 220 including local anaesthetic, materials and wound care. If the implant lies deep or is hard to reach, needs ultrasound guidance, or removal takes considerably longer, this price may change; we will discuss this with you beforehand. See the central contraception cost and insurance information for the criteria that apply to possible reimbursement.
Source: Swiss prescribing information for Implanon NXT (German) · Last updated: July 2026 · These notes do not replace individual medical advice.